Nasal septal foreign body as a complication of dental root canal therapy: A case report

Abstract

BACKGROUND Currently, there have been no reports on foreign bodies found in the nasal septum after dental root canal therapy. Herein, we present an unusual case of a foreign body found in the nasal septum, which occurred after dental root canal therapy and two unsuccessful surgeries. CASE SUMMARY A 55-year-old man was referred to our department due to slight nasal discomfort that persisted for about 1 wk. Before consulting our department, the patient visited three different hospitals/clinics and underwent two surgeries that were not successful in removing a foreign body completely. A computed tomography scan was performed to detect the shift of the foreign body from dental root to the nasal septum, which resulted in the healing of oral inflammation and nasal septum discomfort. An endoscopic foreign body extraction surgery (3rd removal surgery) was then successfully performed, using a needle as the reference. No nasal reconstruction was required after the operation. Postoperative healing was uneventful. CONCLUSION Medical healthcare professionals should consider past medical history when dealing with foreign body cases. During septal foreign body extraction surgery, a needle could be used as a helpful reference.